Just imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy Korean BBQ meatball, oozing with flavor and paired with a spicy mayo dip that sends your taste buds into a frenzy. The smoky aroma wafts through the kitchen as you prepare these delightful bites, perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in.

I remember the first time I made these Korean BBQ meatballs; my friends practically fought over the last one at our game night. Trust me; this dish is not just food; it’s an experience worth sharing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These mouthwatering Korean BBQ meatballs boast rich flavors and an easy preparation process
- They look stunning on any table and are versatile enough for various occasions
- The spicy mayo dip adds an exciting kick that everyone will love!
One time at a dinner party, my friend declared these meatballs the highlight of the evening—no pressure or anything.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Green Onions: Fresh green onions add brightness and crunch; chop them finely for even distribution.
- Garlic Cloves: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor; minced is best to infuse every bite.
- Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for a fragrant kick that complements the richness of the beef.
- Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together without overpowering it.
- Ketchup: A touch of ketchup adds sweetness and moisture to each meatball—don’t skip this!
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while enhancing umami flavors.
- Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil adds depth and authenticity to your dish.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch when baking or frying your meatballs—trust me on this one!
- Mayonnaise: The base for our spicy dip; choose a good quality mayonnaise for creamy goodness.
- Sriracha Sauce: Add as much or as little as you like; it’s where the magic happens!
- Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice brightens up the dip and balances out the creaminess.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, breadcrumbs, ketchup, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well mixed—your hands work best here!
Shape Into Balls: With wet hands (this prevents sticking), roll the mixture into golf ball-sized spheres. Aim for uniformity so they cook evenly.
Prepare Your Cooking Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. If frying on stovetop instead, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add oil.
Bake or Fry: If baking, place them on a lined baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown. If frying, cook each side until browned—about 3-4 minutes per side.
Create Spicy Mayo Dip: While the meatballs are cooking, mix mayonnaise with sriracha sauce and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust spice levels based on your preference!
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked through (check with a thermometer if uncertain), serve these beauties warm alongside your spicy mayo dip—a match made in culinary heaven!
Now gather friends around because once you serve these tantalizing Korean BBQ meatballs with that zingy dip on game day or movie night—you’ll be declared ‘the master chef’ in no time! Enjoy every last bite!
You Must Know
- For the ultimate Korean BBQ Meatballs experience, ensure you use fresh ginger and garlic
- These ingredients elevate the flavor profile and add a delightful aroma
- Don’t underestimate the power of a good dip; it can transform a simple meatball into a culinary masterpiece
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the meatball ingredients, then shape them before pan-searing for a crispy exterior. While they cook, prepare the spicy mayo dip for instant flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add chopped scallions for extra crunch. You can even spice things up with some sesame oil or sriracha in the mix.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that perfect texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Korean BBQ Meatballs, don’t skip chilling them before cooking; this helps them hold their shape
- Use a mix of proteins like pork and beef for a richer flavor profile
- Finally, adjust the spiciness of your mayo dip to suit your taste buds!
Sometimes I still remember that time I made these Korean BBQ Meatballs for a potluck. Friends couldn’t stop raving about them, leading me to feel like a culinary rock star!
FAQ
Can I make Korean BBQ Meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge overnight.
What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice or fresh vegetables for balanced meals.
How do I adjust the spiciness of the mayo dip?
Simply add more sriracha for heat or reduce it if you prefer milder flavors.

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are juicy, flavorful bites paired with a zesty sauce, making them perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, green onions, garlic, ginger, breadcrumbs, ketchup, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined.
- With wet hands, roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat for frying.
- Bake on a lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes or fry until browned on all sides (3-4 minutes per side).
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lime juice for the dip.
- Serve warm alongside spicy mayo dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (140g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg